surprises.

Surprises take thought and careful planning. They take lots of self-control to refrain from blabbing to everyone (something I struggle with). Most of all, surprises don't let you down. When there are no expectations, you can't be disappointed. What's not to love.

I celebrated my 22nd birthday this past week. Birthdays are a great reminder of everything we have to be thankful for. I loved hearing from friends and family throughout the day. It was great to celebrate with some of my best friends. There were so many little surprises throughout the week. I really appreciate you all!

A few weeks ago, Chris told me he had a surprise day planned for my birthday. I tried my best not to ask him 5 million times what we were doing. I am glad he kept it a surprise.

We started off the day at First Watch. I opted for the pumpkin spice pancakes with chicken apple sausage and scrambled eggs. After a nice breakfast with Katie (one of my roommates) and her boyfriend, Chris and I got in the car.

My surprise? A ride on the Cuyahoga Valley Scenic Railroad! It was an absolutely perfect fall day for a train ride.

I couldn't believe how many people were taking advantage of the beautiful weather. The trail was full of bikers, walkers and families. The train was so full that we got to sit in the brunch car! We definitely enjoyed having the nice seating arrangements.

We rode the train to Peninsula where we got out and shopped around. I loved looking in the old style stores. The Yellow Creek Trading Co. was my favorite place to shop. The store was built in 1885 and has been a general store, blacksmith shop and post office. The original wooden floors creaked as we walked around and it was fun looking at all of the Halloween decorations.

After shopping, we sat down at a local bar and had some refreshing iced tea with an appetizer of chips and guacamole. The guacamole was the same recipe Alton Brown uses on the Food Network. Delicious.

Our train ride back was just as beautiful and relaxing. I would definitely recommend spending an afternoon in our National Park and taking a ride on the Scenic Railroad. Chris and I hope to ride bikes once the leaves change and take the train back. (It's only a $3 ride for bikers!)

Autumn is just around the corner and I couldn't be more excited. Be sure to check out tickets for the RIPE! Fest next weekend.